I am new to Aromatherapy - which oils should I start with?

Try not to confuse yourself with using too many Oils to start with.

I would suggest trying Lavender, Tea-tree, Rosemary and Lemon. These oils are versatile, easy to use, safe and cover most of the common conditions that you may wish to deal with in the home environment – including common ailments, home fragrancing, stress relief and fatigue.

Lavender is distilled from the flowers and leaves of the herb and is a widely used Essential Oil that is an effective anti-depressant. It is a well known treatment for insomnia and has a restorative, tonic effect which makes it useful for treating individuals with fatigue or lethargy. It is also a good “balancer” and an effective pain killer.

Tea Tree Oil is taken from the leaves of the Australian Outback Tea Tree and is anti-septic, anti-viral and anti-fungal. Many people call it “nature’s antibiotic”. It has the additional property of being a powerful immuno-stimulant helping the body to fight back when disease or injury threatens it. It is therefore useful on treating colds, flu and other infectious illnesses that are common in the school or office environment. It can also be extremely effective in the treatment of skin problems.

Rosemary. Again from the herb, this has a stimulating effect on the nervous system and is commonly recommended as a tonic during periods of stress. It is clinically proven to improve memory and concentration and can combat work related fatigue or improve focus as an aid to study. It is an effective hair tonic and is reputed to promote growth and improve condition.

Rosemary has a similar action to Eucalyptus so it is an excellent oil for treating colds and flu and clearing the sinuses. It is also a warming oil that is helpful in treating muscular aches and pains. (Avoid in pregnancy or if epileptic).

Lemon, in common with Orange and Lime, is refreshing and mentally and physically uplifting. It is ideal as a stimulant to maintain concentration and alertness. It has an affinity with the respiratory systems and is therefore commonly used for treating breathing problems such as asthma. It is a powerful antiseptic that can be used on wounds but care must be taken if the skin is sensitive. Research has shown that lemon stimulates the white blood cells that are responsible for fighting infection.